• Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition
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• v.33 no.4
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• pp.762-768
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• 2004

Chromium has been known to be involved in the glucose metabolism, and hence the utilization of cellular glucose is impaired in the chromium deficiency. Chromium has been recognized as an essential nutrient since the finding of low-molecular-weight Cr-binding substance (LMWCr) as a biological modifier of insulin action. Clinical chromium deficiency associated with glucose intolerance that respond to the administration of chromium. The major impediment to the use of orally administered chromium is poor absorption of trivalent chromium in its inorganic form. Trivalent chromium is more available in yeast md, more recently, as chromium picolinate for oral absorption. The widespread use of these supplements has resulted in controversy regarding chromium's role as a nutrient, its use for treatment of insulin resistance, and its potential toxicity. Most recent evidence strongly supports tile conclusion that there is little fear of toxic reactions from chromium consumption. This report reviews the evidence for the potential toxicity of chromium supplements in contrast with its usefulness as a nutrient or therapeutic agent in the treatment or prevention of insulin resistance.